The luxury travel company, Black Tomato, have just released their travel report, which reveals travellers are not just thinking of “where” when planning their holiday, but “why”?
According to the report, travellers are seeking digital detoxes, especially as nearly 70% of consumers admit to staying connected to work on their holiday.
Tom Marchant, Co-Founder of Black Tomato said; “Part of travel should be about learning and engaging with a place you are inspired by.
“Whilst technology may help inform us, I don’t believe it will be central in how, or where, we travel. We’re likely to start seeing places and experiences encouraging people to put technology to one side.
“When you’re there in the moment, you have room to properly think.”
Travellers are embracing JOMO (the joy of missing out) rather than falling victim to nomophobia (the irrational fear of being without your mobile phone).
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Taking the top spot was Padar Island, Indonesia.
Black Tomato reveals that this digital detox destination has incredibly dramatic scenery, and the small island in the jewel of Indonesia is a must-see in the Komodo National Park. “A trek to the top of the hill will provide incredibly picturesque panoramas of the landscape between two bays of turquoise water,” they said.
Next up is Tien Shan Mountains, Kazakhstan, thanks to its impressive views which is perfect for truly appreciating the magnitude of Earth’s natural beauty. Sleeping in snow caves is just one way you can feel at one in this dramatic landscape, and feel far removed from the stresses of home.
In a surprising move, Black Tomato list Ibiza, Spain as their third and final choice for a digital detox holiday.
“Famed as a European party destination, there’s a much quieter side to Ibiza that is growing in popularity,” they commented.
“Luxury wellness retreats, yoga, fitness and body and soul cleansing are just some of the offerings this idyllic Mediterranean island has to offer. Perfect for dropping off the grid, clearing headspace and reconnecting with yourself.”
As consumers are looking to retreat from their digital lives in exchange for peaceful getaways, more Britons are also ditching popular tourist hotspots for new experiences.
According to the site, over half 54 percent of global travellers want to play a role in reducing over-tourism, while 51 percent would swap their original destination for a lesser known but similar alternative.
The growth of tech-related travel recommendations are also expected to be a key aspect in the decision-making process for travelers this year.
With a wide variety of travel options, the role of trusted tech-led recommendations will become increasingly key and “connect us to a myriad of new experiences that might not otherwise have crossed our path.”
According to Booking.com’s research, 59 percent of people say they want tech to offer them a ‘wildcard’ and surprise options and 46% of global travellers state they will use an app that makes it fast and easy to explore and book activities.
Slo-mo travel is also expected to increase in 2020, as the list highlights a reduced fear of missing out (FOMO) and travellers embracing slower models of transport in a bid to reduce their environmental impact.
Other travel trends which made the list included a rise in the ‘all-immersive traveler’ – those visiting destinations that offer an array of enriching experiences and attractions, pet-centric vacations which prioritise travellers putting their pets needs above their own, and an increase in culinary based holidays putting food and restaurant experiences first.
